THE Health Ministry is working to ensure all rehabilitation facilities in Fiji are inclusive and accessible.
Minister Dr Atonio Lalabalavu reaffirmed this commitment during the commissioning of the newly-completed Special Outpatient Department (SOPD) Clinic at Twomey Hospital in Tamavua.
The $550,000 facility, which now accommodates almost 6000 patients per month, is a major step forward in the country’s efforts to provide disability-inclusive healthcare.
Dr Lalabalavu shared how this also serves as a temporary yet vital replacement while civil works begin on the new National Rehabilitation Hospital, expected to be completed by mid-2028.
“This new clinic aligns with our National Disability Inclusive Health and Rehabilitation Action Plan (NDIHRAP) 2023–2027,” Dr Lalabalavu said.
“The action plan places rehabilitation and disability inclusion at the forefront of our health sector agenda, guiding our efforts to ensure that every health facility is accessible, every service is inclusive, and no Fijian is left behind.”
Referencing data from the 2017 census, the minister noted that 13.7 per cent of Fijians aged three years and older reported some form of functional disability, saying there is an urgent need for scalable and inclusive rehabilitation services.
While acknowledging the clinic as a temporary solution, Dr Lalabalavu stressed the importance of quality and safety for both patients and staff.
“It is necessary that the works are done properly and in a way that provides safety, security and comfort for the 5900 patients seen every month and the 30 specialist staff members who work here.”
The new SOPD clinic was made possible through a multi-partner effort involving the ministry, the Latter-day Saints Charities (LDSC) and the Australian Government’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT).
Their combined financial support contributed to refurbishing and equipping the facility to meet the needs of people living with disabilities.
